Breast Explantation advice?

I had silicone breast implants a year and 6 months ago. I may have a rupture. Is it better to get the MRI then go to a surgeon for breast implant removal, or just see the surgeon straight? I would like to keep my implants, but would feel better with saline breast implants if I need to change. Should I have my current Plastic Surgeon do it? How much would it cost me, on average (So Cal/Orange Co)?

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4 answers to “Breast Explantation advice?”

A: Leak? question about implants

Steven Wallach, MD

I think it would be best to be evaluated by your surgeon first.  If he/she suspects a leak, then I would get the MRI or ultrasound to figure out what exactly is going on.  In terms of prices, that is up to the office policy of the doctor. I am in NYC and although I trained in So Cal a long... more

A: Consultation first before expensive imaging studies

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD

A consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon is the first step before getting any imaging studies. In some cases, I get patients who had a recent MRI for any reason and a rupture was seen. Exchange to saline or gel is a personal choice at this point. Gel wil give a more natural result sepcialy if you... more

A: How do you know it is leaking?

Michael C. Edwards, MD

    Current generation silicone implants are quite durable. How do you know if you have a leak? I would recommend first seeing your plastic surgeon prior to getting any studies done. Best of luck. Dr Edwards

A: Unusual for implants to rupture this soon. Do you desire silicone or not?

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

It is extremely unusual for the implant to rupture after 18 months. If you know for sure you want the implants removed, then the MRI is helpful but not necessary. If, however, you find that if an MRI shows the implant to be intact and you are willing to keep the silicone implants, then it may be useful... more

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